Location: Erie, Pa.
Assets: $280 million
Asset Category Rank (between $200M-$500M): 5
Overall Rank: 20
Assets: $280 million
No. of employees: 105
President/CEO: Gail J. Cook
Each year, Widget Financial Credit Union provides more than 3,600 hours of staff training sessions, which equates to more than one week's worth of training for each employee. And after one year of employment, employees are reimbursed for approved continuing education.
"We hire for attitude, integrity and work ethic. During the interview process we look for those with compassion toward others," said CEO Gail J. Cook. "Everything else can be coached, and we have a very strong coaching culture and promote internally whenever possible."
Cook's approach to training and education is best realized in the CU's annual comprehensive exam, CUPS (Credit Union Products and Services). The test ensures that employees are "knowledgeable on products and services" as well as core values. To prepare for CUPS, employees review provides materials and access detailed study guides.
"Everyone, including executive staff, is required to take the test and must score at least 90%. The test is online and everyone can use our internal online knowledge base and website to find the answers," said Cook. "We don't want to stress everyone out trying to memorize everything. We want everyone in the habit of empowerment, knowing they can always find the answers. A test like this helps our team feel more confident when they interact with members."
Founded in 1936, the CU currently operates six branches and serves more than 39,000 members.
